Josh Smoker (Newsday)

One of the most electrifying members of the Mets bullpen is back. The team announced before yesterday’s game that they have activated Josh Smoker from the disabled list. In a corresponding move, the Mets designated Neil Ramirez for assignment.

Josh Smoker returns from a left shoulder strain that put him out of action for five weeks. Before going on the DL, Smoker had a 7.45 ERA for the team, striking out 36 batters while walking 17. While those numbers don’t excite many, Smoker has shown glimpses that he can be an elite relief pitcher. 

The man he is replacing, Neil Ramirez, was not that much better. Since the Mets signed him earlier this year, Ramirez has posted a 6.43 ERA in 21 innings. From the moment he was brought up, Ramirez struggled for the team. While it doesn’t look like much, the move is a significant improvement for a team looking to gain momentum in any way. 

Only time will tell if we will see the dominant 99 MPH fastball throwing Smoker, or the man who gave up eight earned runs before going on the DL. If we get the former, Smoker may end up getting a stint as a setup man. If Addison Reed ends up getting traded, Smoker could even see some time as the team closer.